At the northern tip of the Greek island of Kefalonia, Fiskardo is a postcard-perfect village that feels like stepping into another world. I had the opportunity to visit in 2022 for a work trip, and although the main purpose was business, I made sure to carve out some time to explore the area. Staying in a budget apartment just a short walk from the harbour, I quickly fell in love with its charm. And that harbour—absolutely stunning! It reminded me of a much smaller version of the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town, where I’m from.

The quaint streets, vibrant colours, and rich history of Fiskardo set the tone for an unforgettable getaway. Whether you’re visiting for a day or staying longer, this village offers a perfect mix of beauty, culture, and tranquillity that will captivate all types of travellers. In this guide, I’ll share everything you need to know to make the most of your time in Fiskardo—an enchanting escape that will leave you wanting more.

Getting There

By Air
The nearest airport to Fiskardo is Kefalonia International Airport (EFL), about a 50-minute drive away. I flew in from Athens, and from the airport, you can easily rent a car or take a taxi to reach Fiskardo. The airport is quite small, which made the arrival process feel relaxed. Since it was a work trip, everything was arranged for me, but it was easy to get around.

By Ferry
You can also reach Fiskardo by ferry from nearby islands like Ithaca and Lefkada. Ferries dock at the village’s central port, offering a scenic and charming arrival right into the heart of Fiskardo.

Where to Stay in Fiskardo?

Fiskardo offers a range of accommodation options, whether you’re after luxury, comfort, or something more intimate.

Balhambra Suites – I stayed here and loved it. The apartment was clean, cosy, and in a great location, just a stone’s throw from the harbour. The only downside was the poor Wi-Fi, and my apartment didn’t have a harbour view, which would’ve been lovely.

Fiskardo Bay Hotel – A charming waterfront hotel with stunning views of the harbour. Perfect for those wanting to stay close to the action.

Emelisse Nature Resort – If you’re after luxury, this eco-friendly resort is a treat. I had breakfast and lunch here, and both meals were amazing. It’s on the expensive side, but it’s definitely worth it if you can afford it.

Grecotel Kefalonia – A family-friendly resort set in beautiful gardens, with everything from pools to kids’ activities.

Vacation Rentals – For a more personal experience, you might want to rent a villa or apartment. There’s a variety of options, from small studios to larger seaside homes. Just keep in mind that the roads can be tricky, especially with the hairpin turns, so unless you’re a confident driver, I’d recommend staying closer to the main attractions.

Things to Do in Fiskardo

Explore the Harbour

The heart of Fiskardo is its picturesque harbour. Whether you’re strolling along the waterfront or relaxing at a café watching the boats come and go, the harbour has a relaxed, charming vibe. I visited in May, so it wasn’t too crowded, and I enjoyed walking around, shopping, eating, and even dancing at the Greco Café.

Historical Sites

If, like me, you love history, Fiskardo has some fascinating historical sites to explore. The Roman Cemetery of Fiskardo was one of my favourite visits, offering a glimpse into the village’s ancient past—it’s free to visit, and as a history lover, I was thrilled to be able to visit it. The Old Monastery of Agios Nikolaos is another peaceful spot with lovely views over the village and surrounding area. I also hiked up to the Venetian Lighthouse with my colleagues, where we were rewarded with panoramic views of the Ionian Sea—it’s a beautiful spot with a pleasant, easy hike through the forest. Lastly, the Early Byzantine Basilica is a must-see for any history enthusiast, giving visitors a peek into the area’s religious past.

Beaches

Fiskardo and its surroundings boast some incredible beaches:

Emblisi Beach – This small pebbly beach was my favourite. I took a walk there the first time I went and got a bit lost, but it was totally worth it.

Zavalata Beach – It very close to the harbour so it is convenient. A gorgeous spot to have a picnic if you are staying close by.

Fiskardo Beach – Convenient and close to the village, it’s a good spot to relax after a day of sightseeing.

Foki Beach – This peaceful bay offers clear waters, great for swimming and unwinding. There’s also a great little restaurant here where I had some authentic food.

Myrtos Beach – Not in Fiskardo itself, but just a short drive away, this beach is one of the most iconic on the island. I didn’t get a chance to swim here, but I did manage to snap a few photos.

Jerusalem Beach – A hidden gem that’s quiet and perfect for a peaceful day by the sea. I had lunch at Oddy’s Tavern right by the beach, and the food was spectacular.

Outdoor Activities

Hiking – Fiskardo is surrounded by lush hills and forests, offering plenty of hiking trails. Some are easy, while others are more challenging. I hiked almost daily up to my boss’s villa—it was great for burning off the extra calories from all the food!

Boat Rentals – Renting a boat is a great way to explore the coastline. I didn’t rent one myself, but I did enjoy an organised boat trip for a work outing to Ithaca, where I helped with an animal outreach project.

Dining in Fiskardo

Fiskardo’s food scene is a wonderful mix of traditional Greek tavernas and trendy cafes. There’s no shortage of places to try fresh seafood and local delicacies.

Vasso’s Restaurant – This spot was where I had my first meal in Fiskardo. I ate so much that I thought I might burst! The food here is top-notch.

Panormos Tavern – Great views, delicious cocktails, and a live band which was hired by my work. Since work was picking up the bill, I may have indulged a little—let’s just say I had more than my usual two drinks! The Greek dancing and plate-smashing made it a night to remember. I learnt how to do a traditional greek dance. It was lots of fun.

BBQ Njoy House – If you’re craving something other than Greek food, this casual eatery serves up some fantastic grilled meats. I went there on with my coworkers my last night in Fiskardo and the meat was great. We also got free shots. The staff were all very kind.

Emelisse Nature Resort – The food here is exceptional—fancy breakfasts and lunches that are a real treat. I had the breakfast buffet and the lunch since we had a work conference at the hotel.

Theodora’s Cafe – A cosy spot for a coffee or light bite, perfect for people-watching. They also serve great cocktails. A great place to have a few drinks.

Greco Cafe Bistro – I came here almost every night for drinks and dancing—it quickly became a favourite hangout spot. I got free drinks from the manager and it was small but a very chilled spot.

Taverna Odysseas – A traditional taverna that serves up hearty Greek dishes.

Traditional Bakery – Don’t miss this local bakery, where you can enjoy freshly baked bread, pastries, and other local treats. This is where I got my breakfast every morning.

Shopping

If you’re in the mood to shop, Fiskardo’s charming shops offer unique souvenirs like handmade crafts, jewellery, and Greek olive oil. The local market is also worth a visit for fresh produce and artisanal goods. However, I did find that things are a bit pricier in Kefalonia than in Athens, so if you have time, it’s worth saving bigger purchases for the capital.

Tips for Visitors

Best Time to Visit – While Fiskardo is lovely year-round, spring and early autumn are the best times to visit, with mild temperatures and fewer tourists. The summer months can be quite busy, especially in the village centre.

Transportation – Fiskardo is pedestrian-friendly, but if you want to explore more of the island, renting a car is definitely recommended. I would’ve loved to explore Myrtos Beach and the Melissani Caves, but sadly, I don’t drive yet. I also couldn’t block out a whole day just for travelling since I was on a work trip.

Language – Greek is the official language, but English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas. The locals were all very friendly and happy to chat in English.

Water – Buy your water since the water is not suitable for drinking.

Do not flush your toilet paper – I know this is gross, but the plumbing in the older buildings cannot handle toilet paper. You will end up clogging the toilet.

Supermarkets – There are two mini supermarkets close to the harbour. They sell lots of things—alcohol, food, snacks, and little touristy gifts like fridge magnets. You can save on eating out by buying food there and having a picnic for lunch. The little souvenirs there are sometimes cheaper than at the harbour’s shops.

It is not a clubbing spot- If you’re really after a true clubbing experience, you might need to travel to a larger town on Kefalonia, like Argostoli, which has more options for late-night dancing and nightlife. But for a charming, relaxed vibe with some dancing, Fiskardo is perfect! I also went clubbing in Athens and my nights at Greco’ Cafe were enough for me.

Nearby Islands to Visit
If you have time, take a day trip to nearby islands like Ithaca and Lefkada. Ithaca, in particular, is a dream. I had one of the best meals of my life there—Lamb Cherepa that I’ll never forget!

Fiskardo is a true gem of the Ionian Islands. Whether you’re looking to relax by the sea, explore ancient ruins, hike through lush forests, or indulge in delicious food, this village has it all. It’s a perfect mix of peace, charm, and local culture, making it an unforgettable destination.

Thank you for reading and please feel free to comment.

Happy travels!